Initial Preparation:One-Pot Method: This recipe is crafted for convenience, allowing you to cook all ingredients in a single pot before baking. Check the cooking instructions on your rice packaging for the correct amount of liquid (beef broth) and cooking duration.Alternative Rice Cooking: Optionally, you can cook the rice separately, omitting the beef broth from the recipe. In this case, prepare 3 + 3/4 cups of cooked rice to mix with the other ingredients. Heat the Oven: Begin by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cook the Beef: Using a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning during the cooking process.
Drain and Set Aside Beef: Once browned, drain any excess grease from the beef, transfer it to a plate, and cover it with foil to keep it warm.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add onions and sauté for 5 minutes until they soften. Then, add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Combine Broth, Butter, and Rice: Next, pour in the beef broth and add the remaining butter and uncooked rice. Stir everything together well.
Boil and Simmer: Bring the pot to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
Cook the Rice: Cover the pot tightly and let the rice cook for 10 minutes.
Add Mushrooms: Add the mushrooms to the pot, re-cover, and continue to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on the rice's cooking instructions. Remember not to stir the rice.
Let it Stand: After cooking, turn off the heat but keep the pot covered. Let it stand for 10 minutes. This allows any rice stuck at the bottom to release.
Combine with Other Ingredients: Reintroduce the cooked beef into the pot, along with the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and half the cheese. Stir everything to combine evenly.
Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish and bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Serve! :)